Post by porkloindubois on Mar 2, 2015 18:34:00 GMT -5
I have an XDA-1. It seems to have been settled that the volume control on it is digital, meaning there's a loss of material as the volume is turned down. I've also read that the XDA2 corrected that with a truly analog volume control,
I have yet to test this with an outside preamplifier to hear it with my own ears as I've learned so much of what I read is theoretical delivered as useable information. If it turns out that the information loss is noticeable when the volume is turned below 80 on the XDA1, my choices become buying an XDA-2 or a preamp to insert between the XDA-1 and the XPA-200.
Which brings up the question: Does the preamp in the XDA-2 qualify as "active" or "passive" ? Fans of "passive" preamplifiers make the compelling argument that they inject less color into the source material than their active counterparts and it would be a point in favor of an XDA-2. I tend to (rationally or irrationally) prefer simplicity, which is why it will hold weight in my decision.
I have yet to test this with an outside preamplifier to hear it with my own ears as I've learned so much of what I read is theoretical delivered as useable information. If it turns out that the information loss is noticeable when the volume is turned below 80 on the XDA1, my choices become buying an XDA-2 or a preamp to insert between the XDA-1 and the XPA-200.
Which brings up the question: Does the preamp in the XDA-2 qualify as "active" or "passive" ? Fans of "passive" preamplifiers make the compelling argument that they inject less color into the source material than their active counterparts and it would be a point in favor of an XDA-2. I tend to (rationally or irrationally) prefer simplicity, which is why it will hold weight in my decision.
(That's where I would look towards). I own both XDA-1 and DC-1, and have had extensive experience with the XDA-2 in my room. 
